Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, calamansi juice, black pepper, and minced garlic.
- Marinate the Beef: Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator. For best results, marinate overnight.
2. Cook the Onions
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onions: Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef
- Sear the Beef: In the same skillet, add the marinated beef (reserve the marinade) in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. If you prefer a more tender result, you can cook the beef for a longer time, depending on your preferred doneness.
- Add the Marinade: Once all the beef is cooked, return all the beef to the skillet. Pour in the reserved marinade and beef broth (if using). Simmer for about 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Serve
- Add the Onions Back: Return the sautéed onions to the skillet, mixing them with the beef and sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
- Garnish: Transfer the Bistek to a serving dish, garnishing with green onions or parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Bistek
- Choose the Right Cut: Flank steak or sirloin works best for Bistek because they are flavorful and tender when sliced thinly.
- Marinate for Flavor: The longer you marinate the beef, the more flavorful it will become. Overnight marination is ideal.
- Control the Saltiness: Soy sauce can vary in saltiness, so adjust the amount according to your preference, especially if you’re sensitive to sodium.
Variations
- Bistek with Vegetables: Add bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the dish for added color and nutrition.
- Spicy Bistek: For a kick of heat, add chopped chili peppers to the marinade or sauté them with the onions.
- Bistek with Eggs: Serve Bistek with a fried egg on top for a more traditional Filipino breakfast twist.
Why You’ll Love Bistek
- Rich and Savory: The combination of soy sauce, calamansi juice, and garlic creates a rich and savory flavor profile that’s irresistible.
- Comforting Meal: Bistek is a hearty dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.
- Quick and Easy: With its straightforward preparation, Bistek is a great option for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Rich: Beef is an excellent source of protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The onions in Bistek provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and antioxidants.
Pairing Suggestions
- Steamed Rice: The savory sauce of Bistek is best enjoyed over a generous serving of steamed white or brown rice.
- Pickled Vegetables: Serve with pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Soup: A side of clear soup or sinigang (a sour soup) can complement the meal perfectly.
Conclusion
Bistek is a classic Filipino dish that showcases the incredible flavors of marinated beef and sautéed onions. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a favorite among families and a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, Bistek is sure to delight and satisfy. Try this recipe, and experience the warm, comforting flavors of this Filipino favorite!
